Cricket Prevention

The most effective way to get rid of crickets is to reduce areas
of moisture in and around your home. Mow the lawn, weed plant beds
and move woodpiles away from the structure. Provide adequate
ventilation in crawl spaces, basements, etc. In addition, change
outdoor lighting to less-attractive yellow bulbs or sodium vapor
lamps. It is also important to seal possible points of entry for
house crickets around the house, including window and door
frames.

Related Links

House crickets get their common name from the fact that they
often enter houses where they can survive indefinitely.
Interestingly, they are known for their loud chirping which is
caused by rubbing their front wings together to attract
females.

Habits

House crickets are nocturnal or active at night and usually hide
in dark warm places during the day. Outside, they feed on plants
and dead or live insects, including other crickets. Indoors, house
crickets can feast on fabric, eating large areas, leaving holes and
are especially attracted to clothes soiled with perspiration.

Habitat

During warm weather, house crickets typically live outdoors and
are especially fond of garbage dumps. They are often attracted to
electric lights in larger numbers, sometimes by the thousands, and
rest on vertical surfaces such as light poles and house walls.
However, when cold weather approaches, they seek shelter in houses
and sheds because of the moisture and warmth they provide.

Threats

Clothing and carpets can become damaged when house crickets
enter homes. They typically feed on the surface, leaving the area
roughened from pulling the fibers loose while eating.